How can you get rid of bedbugs in a bed yourself? - briefly
Remove bedding, vacuum mattress seams, then apply a high‑temperature steam treatment and an EPA‑approved insecticide, sealing cracks and washing all fabrics in hot water. Repeat the procedure weekly for three weeks to capture any survivors before they reproduce.
How can you get rid of bedbugs in a bed yourself? - in detail
Eliminating bedbugs from a sleeping surface requires a systematic approach that combines mechanical removal, chemical treatment, and environmental control.
First, isolate the infested area. Strip the bed of all linens, blankets, and pillowcases. Place each item in a sealed plastic bag and transport to a hot‑water washing machine. Use water at a minimum of 60 °C (140 °F) and dry on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes; heat kills all life stages of the insect.
Next, treat the mattress and box spring directly. Follow these steps:
- Vacuum – Use a hose attachment to vacuum the entire surface, seams, and tufts. Empty the vacuum canister into a sealed bag and discard outdoors.
- Steam – Apply a commercial steamer (temperature ≥ 100 °C / 212 °F) to the fabric, focusing on folds, tags, and crevices. Move the nozzle slowly to ensure penetration for 10‑15 seconds per spot.
- Insecticide – Apply a registered bed‑bug spray or dust that contains pyrethroids, silica gel, or diatomaceous earth. Follow label directions, covering the mattress top, sides, and any surrounding frame. Allow the product to dry completely before re‑assembling the bed.
- Encasement – Fit a zippered, bed‑bug‑proof mattress and box‑spring cover that seals at least 18 months. The barrier prevents surviving insects from escaping and stops new infestations from entering.
After treatment, monitor the situation. Place sticky traps under each leg of the bed to capture any residual bugs. Inspect weekly for at least two months, focusing on the same areas previously treated. If activity persists, repeat the vacuum‑steam‑insecticide cycle.
Finally, reduce the risk of re‑infestation by controlling the surrounding environment:
- Keep clutter away from the bed to eliminate hiding places.
- Seal cracks in walls, baseboards, and furniture with caulk.
- Maintain low humidity (below 50 %) and keep the room temperature moderate.
- Regularly wash bedding on a hot cycle, even when no bugs are observed.
By executing these steps methodically, a homeowner can effectively eradicate bedbugs from a sleeping surface without professional assistance.